SHAFAQNA – Iraqi army soldiers, backed by volunteer forces, have reportedly launched a major operation against ISIL terrorists in the strategic northern city of Baiji, killing tens of militants.

According to Iraqi officials, army forces managed to liberate a number of villages near Baiji in Salahuddin Province. About 40 improvised explosive devices planted by the militants were dismantled during the military operation.

Iraqi armed forces also killed some 70 ISIL Takfiris during their anti-terror offensive, according to the governor of Salahuddin.

Iraq’s army troops have been conducting operations in Baiji, which hosts the country’s biggest oil refinery, since last year.

Baiji is located on a main road to the ISIL-held city of Mosul in Iraq’s north.

Baghdad has so far managed to make numerous gains in the fight against the ISIL terrorists, pledging to continue the battle against the extremist group.

ISIL started its campaign of terror in Iraq in early June 2014. The heavily-armed militants took control of Mosul before sweeping through parts of the country’s Sunni Arab heartland.

They have been carrying out horrific acts of violence, including public decapitations, against Iraqi communities such as Shias, Sunnis, Kurds, and Christians.